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Ice on Immigration: Ombudsman helps with problems, gives immigration advice

By L. Patricia Ice, Featured Columnist

Question:  I have applied for lawful permanent residence on form I-485 and I am having extreme difficulties with my application.  I have contacted the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Customer Service line and they have not been able to help me.  I cannot afford an attorney.  I have heard there is an Ombudsman office within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that may be able to help me.  Who is the USCIS Ombudsman and how can he help me?

Answer:  The USCIS Ombudsman, Attorney Prakash Khatri, was the first to be appointed to the post by DHS Secretary Tom Ridge, in July 2003.  The Ombudsman identifies areas in which individuals and employers encounter problems with USCIS.  The Ombudsman office also assists individuals and employers in resolving service or case-related difficulties, and proposes changes in USCIS administrative practices to mitigate identified problems.  The Ombudsman also provides policy, planning and program advice to the DHS Secretary, Deputy Secretary and other government officials regarding immigration matters.  Each year the Ombudsman prepares and submits a report to the United States Congress citing problems with USCIS procedures and giving recommendations for improvement.  You may view the annual report and contact the Ombudsman with your problem via the USCIS web site at http://www.dhs.gov/xabout/structure/editorial_0482.shtm.